For a long time now, the existence of Stoneleigh Library has been in jeopardy. If it weren’t for the new volunteers from Friends of Stoneleigh Library, then our local library may not have survived. But, not only has it survived, for the next two weeks, the library is closed to be renovated and refurbished, ready to open as the new Stoneleigh Community Library.

 

Diana Kay is the Chair of Friends of Stoneleigh Library, which is a charitable organisation working to provide library services to the community. I met with Diana earlier this week and asked about the up and coming events planned for the new library.

 

What is happening to the library at the moment whilst it is closed and what is the reason for the closure and reopening?

The Library is being closed from the 4th February to the 15th February, and it will open again on the 16th February. During the closure the library will be refurbished and books are all going to be sorted and renewed by the Council. There will also be some internal decoration done together with a new layout in the library, including a seating area to make the library more user friendly.

 

What made you want to get involved in the library campaign and also to become the Chair of the charity?

I think local libraries are very important for the community. When my children were young I used to take them to the library regularly. I also go to a local art group that takes place on a Friday, so I think that libraries are really important within a community.

 

What is going to be new to the library? What changes are being made?

The running of the library is going to change as from the 16th February onwards; the library will be run jointly by Friends of Stoneleigh Library and Surrey County Council in a community partnership. This means that Surrey County Council will continue financing the library through to covering costs of electrics and heating and Friends of Stoneleigh Library will provide the volunteers that will run the library itself.

 

Have you had any difficulties whilst trying to make this all work and keep the library open?

Yes it has been a very long journey as the original plans were going to be implemented this time last year so it has been exhausting getting all the volunteers prepared to help and then it all having to be delayed. Fortunately many of the volunteers are still willing to help now it is all going ahead but we do still need more volunteers to help run the library.

 

Will there be any grand re-opening events relating to the opening of the library?

Definitely, on the 16th February there is going to be grand reopening event between eleven and three o’clock. At twelve there will be a ribbon cutting, with free refreshments in the library throughout the day. Budgens are supporting the opening of the library by helping to provide some of the refreshments.

 

If you want to find out more about volunteering at Stoneleigh Library please contact Friends of Stoneleigh Library by email at friendsstoneleighlib@gmail.com or by post c/o Stoneleigh Library.

They are looking for people willing and able to support the Community Library in a variety of ways, so please do contact them if you would like more information.

There is also a community room at the back of the library available for rental by local organisations. Please get in contact with the library for more details.